SPIEGEL ONLINE - International - Electric Carshttp://www.spiegel.de
Daily news, analysis and opinion from Europe's leading newsmagazine and Germany's top news Web site.enSun, 02 Aug 2015 20:26:03 +0200Sun, 02 Aug 2015 20:26:03 +0200SPIEGEL ONLINEhttp://www.spiegel.de
http://www.spiegel.de/static/sys/logo_120x61.gifMerkel's Patrons: Donation from BMW Owners Raises Eyebrowshttp://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/cdu-gets-donation-from-bmw-owners-during-co2-talks-a-927954.html#ref=rss
Just weeks after the German election, Angela Merkel's conservatives received donations totalling 690,000 euros from the family that owns almost half of BMW. The payment coincides with Berlin's forceful intervention to halt tough new CO2 curbs for carmakers in the EU.Tue, 15 Oct 2013 17:46:00 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/cdu-gets-donation-from-bmw-owners-during-co2-talks-a-927954.htmlJust weeks after the German election, Angela Merkel's conservatives received donations totalling 690,000 euros from the family that owns almost half of BMW. The payment coincides with Berlin's forceful intervention to halt tough new CO2 curbs for carmakers in the EU.]]>Car Clash: Germany†Blocks CO2 Reduction Dealhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/germany-delays-eu-decision-on-lower-co2-emissions-for-cars-a-908176.html#ref=rss
There were threats, lobbying and even a call from Chancellor Merkel to the Irish prime minister. In the end, Germany got its way and managed to delay an EU decision on lowering the amount of CO2 European-made cars may emit. Thu, 27 Jun 2013 13:44:00 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/germany-delays-eu-decision-on-lower-co2-emissions-for-cars-a-908176.htmlThere were threats, lobbying and even a call from Chancellor Merkel to the Irish prime minister. In the end, Germany got its way and managed to delay an EU decision on lowering the amount of CO2 European-made cars may emit. ]]>Funding Shortfall: Germany Forced to Cancel Climate Programshttp://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/germany-cancels-trio-of-climate-programs-amid-funding-shortfall-a-889483.html#ref=rss
As prices for carbon emissions continue to languish, Berlin is planning to cancel some key subsidy programs aimed at increasing reliance on renewable energies. Germany and other European countries seem uninterested in fixing the problem.Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:33:18 +0100http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/germany-cancels-trio-of-climate-programs-amid-funding-shortfall-a-889483.htmlAs prices for carbon emissions continue to languish, Berlin is planning to cancel some key subsidy programs aimed at increasing reliance on renewable energies. Germany and other European countries seem uninterested in fixing the problem.]]>The World From Berlin: 'Electric Cars Are Far Too Expensive'http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/german-press-review-on-disappointing-sales-of-electric-cars-a-859172.html#ref=rss
The German government said last year it wanted to see 1 million electric cars on the road by 2020. But this week it conceded that the goal is probably out of reach. Media commentators argue that battery-powered cars are too expensive and don't have a long enough range to make them attractive to consumers. Tue, 02 Oct 2012 14:55:49 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/german-press-review-on-disappointing-sales-of-electric-cars-a-859172.htmlThe German government said last year it wanted to see 1 million electric cars on the road by 2020. But this week it conceded that the goal is probably out of reach. Media commentators argue that battery-powered cars are too expensive and don't have a long enough range to make them attractive to consumers. ]]>Making Trolleys Out of Trucks: 'Green' Transport Idea Is Expensive Follyhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/siemens-misguided-idea-about-putting-power-lines-on-german-roads-a-842834.html#ref=rss
The German engineering giant Siemens is researching the idea of using overhead electricity lines to power truck traffic. But the state-supported project makes no sense. It would cost billions to implement -- and only lead to higher fuel consumption and more pollution.Fri, 06 Jul 2012 13:53:43 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/siemens-misguided-idea-about-putting-power-lines-on-german-roads-a-842834.htmlThe German engineering giant Siemens is researching the idea of using overhead electricity lines to power truck traffic. But the state-supported project makes no sense. It would cost billions to implement -- and only lead to higher fuel consumption and more pollution.]]>New Joint Projects: BMW and Toyota Plan Closer Cooperationhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/business/bmw-and-toyota-plan-to-deepen-cooperation-a-840781.html#ref=rss
BMW and Toyota plan to broaden their planned cooperation beyond diesel engines and battery technology and to work together in other areas, SPIEGEL has learned. The alliance will be announced shortly. The two carmakers can benefit from each other's know-how.Mon, 25 Jun 2012 13:16:32 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/bmw-and-toyota-plan-to-deepen-cooperation-a-840781.htmlBMW and Toyota plan to broaden their planned cooperation beyond diesel engines and battery technology and to work together in other areas, SPIEGEL has learned. The alliance will be announced shortly. The two carmakers can benefit from each other's know-how.]]>Electric Dreams: Congested Streets Spark E-Scooter Trendhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/business/e-scooters-make-a-comeback-among-major-auto-companies-a-832688.html#ref=rss
As cities become more crowded and traffic†more snarled, commuters and engineers are searching for better ways to get around the world's urban hubs. E-scooters, once considered an unpromising technology, are making a comeback as major car manufacturers rediscover their utility and sudden popularity.Fri, 11 May 2012 18:36:09 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/e-scooters-make-a-comeback-among-major-auto-companies-a-832688.htmlAs cities become more crowded and traffic†more snarled, commuters and engineers are searching for better ways to get around the world's urban hubs. E-scooters, once considered an unpromising technology, are making a comeback as major car manufacturers rediscover their utility and sudden popularity.]]>Renault's Revolution: Tiny Twizy Sets E-Mobility World Atwitterhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/business/renault-s-new-all-electric-commuter-twizy-a-826660.html#ref=rss
It's even smaller than Daimler's Smart and runs entirely on electric power. Renault's new Twizy shows the limits of E-mobility technology and may be†the perfect city vehicle. But at almost 8,000 euros without doors or battery, the price tag isn't nearly as small as the car itself.Wed, 11 Apr 2012 10:58:00 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/renault-s-new-all-electric-commuter-twizy-a-826660.htmlIt's even smaller than Daimler's Smart and runs entirely on electric power. Renault's new Twizy shows the limits of E-mobility technology and may be†the perfect city vehicle. But at almost 8,000 euros without doors or battery, the price tag isn't nearly as small as the car itself.]]>Revenue†Shortfall: Carmakers Demand E-Mobility Help from Merkelhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/business/revenue-shortfall-carmakers-demand-e-mobility-help-from-merkel-a-819314.html#ref=rss
Berlin has spearheaded a huge†transition†to renewable energy, but it isn't running†smoothly. Funding for renewable energy†projects was meant to come from carbon dioxide emissions trading. But significant shortfalls have now†prompted auto†industry leaders to request that Chancellor Merkel maintain support for electric cars.Mon, 05 Mar 2012 13:25:59 +0100http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/revenue-shortfall-carmakers-demand-e-mobility-help-from-merkel-a-819314.htmlPolicy Change: China Puts the Brakes on Foreign Automakershttp://www.spiegel.de/international/business/policy-change-china-puts-the-brakes-on-foreign-automakers-a-807582.html#ref=rss
For years, foreign automobile companies have reaped most of the profits to be had in the enormous Chinese market. But in a largely unnoticed change, Beijing is now ending their preferential treatment of carmakers from abroad to focus more on†developing†domestic technology and brands. Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:10:13 +0100http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/policy-change-china-puts-the-brakes-on-foreign-automakers-a-807582.htmlFor years, foreign automobile companies have reaped most of the profits to be had in the enormous Chinese market. But in a largely unnoticed change, Beijing is now ending their preferential treatment of carmakers from abroad to focus more on†developing†domestic technology and brands. ]]>Vive le Canard: Beloved Classic French Car Goes Electrichttp://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/vive-le-canard-beloved-classic-french-car-goes-electric-a-799283.html#ref=rss
The pokey CitroŽn 2CV was derided for its lightness and simplicity when it debuted in the 1940s. But German engineers say these same qualities might make the cult vehicle an ideal prototype for the electric vehicle of the future.Fri, 25 Nov 2011 16:13:00 +0100http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/vive-le-canard-beloved-classic-french-car-goes-electric-a-799283.htmlThe pokey CitroŽn 2CV was derided for its lightness and simplicity when it debuted in the 1940s. But German engineers say these same qualities might make the cult vehicle an ideal prototype for the electric vehicle of the future.]]>Rechargeable†Recreation: Electric Boat Market Takes Off in Switzerlandhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/zeitgeist/rechargeable-recreation-electric-boat-market-takes-off-in-switzerland-a-793927.html#ref=rss
A new line of boats might look like classic Italian-made Rivas, but†they have motors for the 21st century. The Swiss manufacturer Boesch has become a leader in manufacturing stylish and functional electric boats, propelled by†power cells from the defense industry.Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:34:46 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/zeitgeist/rechargeable-recreation-electric-boat-market-takes-off-in-switzerland-a-793927.htmlThe Popemobile: A Brief History of the World's Holiest Carhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/zeitgeist/the-popemobile-a-brief-history-of-the-world-s-holiest-car-a-787762.html#ref=rss
During his trip through Germany, Pope Benedict XVI will ride around†in his bullet-proof, pearlescent popemobile. The history of the vehicle stretches back over eight decades and includes more than 50 exotic cars, which have been the height of†luxury and technology.Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:18:00 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/zeitgeist/the-popemobile-a-brief-history-of-the-world-s-holiest-car-a-787762.htmlDuring his trip through Germany, Pope Benedict XVI will ride around†in his bullet-proof, pearlescent popemobile. The history of the vehicle stretches back over eight decades and includes more than 50 exotic cars, which have been the height of†luxury and technology.]]>The World from Berlin: "If They Really are that Good, Electric Cars will Prevail"http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/the-world-from-berlin-if-they-really-are-that-good-electric-cars-will-prevail-a-763049.html#ref=rss
Berlin has announced plans to drive up the number of electric cars in Germany to one million by 2020, touting financial incentives worth two billion euros†by 2013. German commentators wonder whether the money is being spent in the right place -- or whether it is simply†filling the coffers of large car manufacturers.Tue, 17 May 2011 15:05:00 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/the-world-from-berlin-if-they-really-are-that-good-electric-cars-will-prevail-a-763049.htmlBerlin has announced plans to drive up the number of electric cars in Germany to one million by 2020, touting financial incentives worth two billion euros†by 2013. German commentators wonder whether the money is being spent in the right place -- or whether it is simply†filling the coffers of large car manufacturers.]]>Carbon Fiber Cars: BMW's Electric†Automobile Revolutionhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/business/carbon-fiber-cars-bmw-s-electric-automobile-revolution-a-736296.html#ref=rss
BMW is hoping to revolutionize the electric car industry. Whereas most manufacturers rely on traditional -- and heavy--†steel car bodies, the German company hopes that carbon fiber components†could lead electric cars into the future.Fri, 24 Dec 2010 11:31:46 +0100http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/carbon-fiber-cars-bmw-s-electric-automobile-revolution-a-736296.htmlBMW is hoping to revolutionize the electric car industry. Whereas most manufacturers rely on traditional -- and heavy--†steel car bodies, the German company hopes that carbon fiber components†could lead electric cars into the future.]]>Trailblazing in Paris: E-Car Scheme to Tackle City's Permanent Congestionhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/trailblazing-in-paris-e-car-scheme-to-tackle-city-s-permanent-congestion-a-721368.html#ref=rss
The French capital is notorious for its traffic jams. Now the mayor of Paris has come up with a bold new plan to rid his city of tens of thousands of cars. If he pulls it off, the e-car sharing scheme may become a trailblazer for other congested cities around the world.Tue, 05 Oct 2010 16:42:38 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/trailblazing-in-paris-e-car-scheme-to-tackle-city-s-permanent-congestion-a-721368.htmlThe French capital is notorious for its traffic jams. Now the mayor of Paris has come up with a bold new plan to rid his city of tens of thousands of cars. If he pulls it off, the e-car sharing scheme may become a trailblazer for other congested cities around the world.]]>SPIEGEL Interview with VW Chief Martin Winterkorn: 'The Next Step Is the Electric Car'http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/spiegel-interview-with-vw-chief-martin-winterkorn-the-next-step-is-the-electric-car-a-719730.html#ref=rss
Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn, 63, discusses his goal of replacing Toyota as the world's largest automaker, the risks associated with the Porsche takeover and the company's plans to turn around troubled units like Audi, SEAT and Skoda.Tue, 28 Sep 2010 13:29:00 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/spiegel-interview-with-vw-chief-martin-winterkorn-the-next-step-is-the-electric-car-a-719730.htmlVolkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn, 63, discusses his goal of replacing Toyota as the world's largest automaker, the risks associated with the Porsche takeover and the company's plans to turn around troubled units like Audi, SEAT and Skoda.]]>Jump-Starting the E-Car Revolution: New Mercedes Has Tesla Technology Under the Hoodhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/business/jump-starting-the-e-car-revolution-new-mercedes-has-tesla-technology-under-the-hood-a-718867.html#ref=rss
Mercedes and Toyota are bringing new electric cars onto the market that rely on technology from the Californian automaker Tesla. The startup company, whose sports cars already have a cult following in Hollywood, has pioneered the use of laptop batteries in electric autos.Thu, 23 Sep 2010 14:44:00 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/jump-starting-the-e-car-revolution-new-mercedes-has-tesla-technology-under-the-hood-a-718867.htmlMercedes and Toyota are bringing new electric cars onto the market that rely on technology from the Californian automaker Tesla. The startup company, whose sports cars already have a cult following in Hollywood, has pioneered the use of laptop batteries in electric autos.]]>E-Chic: Smart and Mini Unveil Electric Concept Scootershttp://www.spiegel.de/international/business/e-chic-smart-and-mini-unveil-electric-concept-scooters-a-718896.html#ref=rss
The era of the electric car is supposedly just around the corner.†But a new trend will be grabbing attention at the Paris Motor Show: the e-scooter. Both Daimler and BMW will be showing concept scooters that are not only design pieces, but also include advanced technology never seen before in two-wheelers.Wed, 22 Sep 2010 12:46:00 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/e-chic-smart-and-mini-unveil-electric-concept-scooters-a-718896.htmlThe era of the electric car is supposedly just around the corner.†But a new trend will be grabbing attention at the Paris Motor Show: the e-scooter. Both Daimler and BMW will be showing concept scooters that are not only design pieces, but also include advanced technology never seen before in two-wheelers.]]>The Great E-llusion: Germany to Promote Electric Cars with Massive State Aidhttp://www.spiegel.de/international/business/the-great-e-llusion-germany-to-promote-electric-cars-with-massive-state-aid-a-691457.html#ref=rss
The German government wants to promote the development of electric vehicles on a grand scale. But many industry observers point out that the perceived benefits of e-cars are massively overrated. In some cases, their carbon footprint is even worse than that of conventional autos.Wed, 28 Apr 2010 11:41:19 +0200http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/the-great-e-llusion-germany-to-promote-electric-cars-with-massive-state-aid-a-691457.htmlThe German government wants to promote the development of electric vehicles on a grand scale. But many industry observers point out that the perceived benefits of e-cars are massively overrated. In some cases, their carbon footprint is even worse than that of conventional autos.]]>